Hi
I've read quite a few of the threads on getting permits in Tibet, especially given recent changes in the political situation.
One question I can't seem to see a consistent answer to is whether you can get a tour for a shorter period of time than you intend to stay in Tibet for, and how this overlaps with the length of the permit. For example, if I was planning on staying in Tibet for two weeks, could I book a four day tour and spend the rest of the time travelling independently, or does the permit only last for as long as the tour lasts for?
Hope someone can help!
Thanks
Tom
tomsalmon
1
westwood
I dont know about now but when we got our permits we didnt have to specify the length of time we wanted it for. A permit just gives you permission to enter a certain area.
2
stoognik
the 'permit' relates to the transport - not the tour. the tours part of the deal as it puts you in a group (whoever the others are??). it means nothing, but if you want to push the envelope and actually take it (unheard of) its a shallow look around lhasa, usually in chinese only. it supposedly lasts 3 days
once in xizang you can ignore any tour or permit for getting in (you will not be asked about it because it relates to your transport in, not your presence once inside) and travel independantly. be aware that lots of other permits exist for anywhere outside lhasa and off the highway. these are real permits, but the situation can still be fiddled somewhat.
go ahead and get the minimum tour then once in forget about it and do your own thing. if you do want a tour, agents in lhasa know what to do. you can stay in xizang as long as your visa allows, but forget about extending there.
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
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